India

The 2020 itinerary will be available soon! Please use the 2019 itinerary as a general guide for the 2020 adventure.

3, March 2019
Arrival Delhi

You will be greeted with a traditional welcome on arrival and transferred to our hotel for overnight stay.
Note – Please note that hotel check-in time is 12 Noon

4, March 2019
Delhi

After breakfast, our first photo opportunity at Humayun Tomb. Humayun’s tomb is the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun in Delhi, India. The tomb was commissioned by Humayun’s first wife Bega Begum in 1569-70 and designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, a Persian architect chosen by Bega Begum.

Later we will take you to the Qutab Minar which is the tallest brick minarety in the world, and the second tallest minar in India after Fateh Burj at Mohali. Qutub Minar, along with the ancient and medieval monuments surrounding it, form the Qutb Complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Made of red sandstone and marble, Qutub Minar is a 73-meter (240 feet) tall tapering tower with a diameter measuring 14.32 meters (47 feet) at the base and 2.75 meters (9 feet) at the peak. Inside the tower, a circular staircase with 379 steps leads to the top.

Afternoon (After Lunch) we will take you to the photo tour of Old Delhi. In the 17th century, the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, made his capital in the area that broadly covers present-day Old Delhi—he called it Shahjahanabad. Today, it is one of the city’s most crowded, chaotic and captivating areas, with a bamboozling orchestra of sights, smells, and sounds.

Starting at the eastern (Red Fort) end of Chandni Chowk, visit the 16th-century Digambara Jain Temple. The focal devotional room (first floor) has images and statues of revered Jain figures such as Lord Mahavira and Lord Parasnath.

We continue walking west until you come to the renowned Jalebiwala, a century-old sweet shop on the corner of Chandni Chowk and Dariba Kalan Road. Pause to fuel up on delicious sticky jalebis (deep-fried syrupy “squiggles”). Do a spot of shopping at the bazaar along Dariba Kalan Road, which has a focus on jewellery—mainly silver, but also some gold and costume jewelry. Later we take you to the Kinari Bazaar. This bubbly bazaar specializes in wedding paraphernalia, such as glittering tinsel decorations and ornate bridal accessories.

Thereafter, we move to Paratha Wali Gali, a lane veering to the right, devoted to little eateries specializing in parathas (Indian- style flatbread). The aloo (potato) paratha is a traditional favorite, but for something, a little different try the paratha stuffed with crushed almonds.

5, March 2019
Delhi – Varanasi (Flight)

On time departure transfer to Delhi airport to board the flight for Varanasi. Meeting assistance on your arrival at Varanasi airport and transfer to hotel Varanasi referred to as ‘the city of temples and learning’, the holy city of Varanasi (Benaras), situated on the banks of the river Ganges in India, and is one the oldest continuously inhabited cities on earth.

Encapsulating the essence of India’s Hindu religion, Varanasi with it’s endearing faith, picturesque river ghats, and a way of life unlike any other in the country, Varanasi ranks amongst the most sought-after destinations on our India photography tours.

One of the holiest destinations of Hindu pilgrimages, Varanasi stands at the very center of the Hindu universe, offering the photographer a unique perspective to the soul of India.

In the evening, we will watch the illuminated aarti ceremony that is performed at Dasahwamedh Ghat.

Overnight at hotel.

6, March 2019
Varanasi

In the early morning, we will take to you the Boat ride at Varanasi Ghats where you can witness of Culture, set of beliefs, customs and practices that give a people a sense of collective identity, Varanasi epitomizes India’s Hindu faith and culture. Central to culture are places where people tend to congregate; in Varanasi, it is the river ghats.

For thousands of years, devout Hindus have flocked the ghats every morning to bathe in the holy river and absolve themselves of their sins. For thousands of years, priests have ceremoniously lit lamps every evening and performed elaborate rituals in worship of the holy river. For thousands of years, life in Varanasi has revolved around the river and the stone steps (ghats) that lead to it.

We will witness and photograph the thousands of devotees, elaborate religious ceremonies and daily events at the ghats.

During the afternoon we will take you to the Markets and Temples. The narrow lanes alongside the ghats bustle with activity of all sorts. Here you’ll find the ubiquitous tea vendor dishing out his milky fare in earthenware cups. Walk ahead and you’ll find customers bargaining with the flower seller over the price of garlands for the temple deity. Small shops sell colorful sarees… there is an unhurried pace to life here that will give you ample opportunities to photograph a true exotic marketplace in the heart of India.

7, March 2019
Varanasi – Delhi – Udaipur (Flight)

In time departure transfer to airport to board the flight for Udaipur via Delhi. (Change craft in Delhi). Meeting assistance on your arrival at Udaipur and transfer to hotel for overnight stay.

Overnight at hotel.

8, March 2019
Udaipur

This morning we will wander through the markets & bazaars to visit the Jagdish Temple followed by a visit to the City Palace. Then relax on a one hour long shared motor boat ride on Lake Pichola before visiting the Garden of the Maids of Honour & Folk Art Museum & driving past Fatehsagar Lake.

–City Palace: Udaipur City Palace is one of the architectural marvels of Rajasthan, located peacefully on the banks of Lake Pichola. This majestic City Palace is the most-visited tourist attraction of Udaipur & often distinguished as the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Initially, Maharana Udai Singh built this superb wonder, but the present form of the Palace is the result of subsequent additions by his successors.

–Lake Pichola: Limpid & large, the lake reflects the cool grey-blue mountains on its rippling mirror-like surface. It was enlarged by Maharana Udai Singh II, following his foundation of the city , by flooding Picholi village, which gave the lake its name. It is a perfect place to immerse in the amazing view of the Palace against sunset sunlight. (Please note that eatable / drinks items are not allowed during the boat ride)

–Garden of the Maids of Honour: Also called “Saheliyon Ki Bari”. This small, quaint ornamental garden was laid out for the enjoyment of 48 women attendants who came as part of a princess’ dowry & has beautiful, wll-maintained fountains, kiosks, marble elephants & a delightful lotus pool.

9, March 2019
Udaipur – Jaipur (Flight)

After breakfast departure transfer to airport to board the flight for Jaipur. Meeting assistance on your arrival at Jaipur airport and transfer to hotel.

Jaipur was established by Maharaja Jai Singh II (1693-1743) and painted pink by Maharaja Man Singh II when Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, visited Jaipur in 1876. The Royal heritage of Jaipur lives in its architecture and culture. The city in pink is symbolic of the hospitality that reigned in the Rajput culture.

Later evening photo opportunity for street photography, environmental portraits and architecture in Jaipur. Included in our visit to the impressive City Palace which is located right in the centre of the Old City. A complex of courtyards, gardens and buildings, the outer wall was built by Jai Singh, but within it the palace has been enlarged and adapted over the centuries. There are palace buildings from different eras, some dating from the early 20th century. Despite the gradual development, the whole complex is a striking blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Adjacent to the City Palace is Jantar Mantar, an observatory begun by Jai Singh in 1728, which resembles a collection of bizarre sculptures. The name is derived from the Sanskrit Yanta Mantr meaning ‘instrument of calculation’, and in 2010 it was added to India’s list of World Heritage Sites. Papu Bazar is a famous market in Jaipur and there are other markets located nearby: Indira Market, Nehru Market & Sanjay Market have a unique style where all the shops are of the same size & style. The whole market is very symmetrical and a particular street is known for a specific item.

Overnight at hotel.

10, March 2019
Jaipur

This morning we visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipurs. Few fail to be moved by the dramatic Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace 11 km north of Jaipur. Set on the dry wrinkled Aravali Hills, and surrounded by fortified battlements, the palace straddles two sepia-hued tundra hills overlooking Maota Lake, and its sprawling crenelated walls lattice the surrounding hills.

We will ride up to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned, painted elephant, passing through the ancient main gate where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four hundred years. You will visit the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, a five- storied structure of pink sandstone with semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows overlooking the main street of the old city. It was built in 1799 so that veiled royal women could peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone screens.

Following lunch, a tour Of City Palace & Observatory. The City Palace in the heart of the old city is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The centre of the palace is a seven storied building called Chandra Palace, with fine vies over the gardens and the city. The palace lies in the heart of the city and occupies the whole central grid. The fortified wall has seven gates and was built for protection from invading armies and animals that lived in jungles which surrounded the wall that time. Next, we visit the Solar Observatory – an astronomical treasure house, with solar device that give accurate predictions till date. The Palace Of Winds, a five-storied structure of pink sandstone has semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows overlooking the main street of the old city.

Later back to the hotel for overnight stay.

11, March 2019
Jaipur – Ranthambhore

(Drive 170 Kms – 05 Hours)

After breakfast, drive to Ranthambhore Upon arrival check in at hotel. Afternoon Jeep safari at Ranthambhore National Park.

12, March 2019
Ranthambhore

We will provide Morning and Afternoon jeep safari at Ranthambhore.

Ranthambhore National park is spread over an area of 392 sq km. along with its nearby sanctuaries like – the Mansingh Sanctuary and the Kaila Devi Sanctuary. The park is majorly famous for its tigers and is one of the best locations in India to see the majestic predators in its natural habitat. The tigers can be easily spotted even during the day time busy at their ordinary quest- hunting and taking proper care of their young ones.
Ranthambhore is also counted as the famous heritage site because of the pictorial ruins that dot the wildlife park. Certainly, a visit to Ranthambhore National Park is a treat for every wildlife and nature lover. The time spend on watching tigers roaming around, verdant greenery, a gamut of other species of chirpy birds and animals is priceless and worth enough to be explored at least once in a life.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at the hotel.

13, March 2019
Ranthambhore – Agra

After breakfast drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri.

Upon arrival check in at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

14, March 2019
Agra

Early morning take in the stunning sight of the lavish Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Taj Mahal (closed on Friday), a poem in white marble, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal. Full day tour of Agra City which includes Morning Agra market tour which is known for fabulous marble made handicrafts and soft stone inlay work. The Mughal were great patrons of arts and crafts. Agra’s major handicrafts product besides marble and Inlay work are: leather ware, brassware, carpets, Jewellery and embroidery work. Agra offer a variety of leather items including footwear, purses, bags and decorative items.

Thearafter visit shop of Sandal and rose wood items, brass and stone decorative pieces, embroidered rugs, stone inlay work, floor carving.

After that, you can see what Zardosi is a unique 03 dimensional thread work that originated in Agra during the Mughal region and has held on till today. In today modern era, artisans of Agra have perfected the art of creating wall hangings, table cloth and cushions covers made of Zardosi.

Agra is famous for its carpets and Dhurries. You can see the nearby factory to see the process of creation of these items. The city has been center of making carpets and Dhurries since the Mughal days

Later in afternoon visit Agra Fort (Fort and Palace) situated on the West Bank of the river Jamuna. Agra Fort which resonates with rich Mughal architecture.

Later in the evening and saunter through the inviting Mehtab Bagh and bask in the mesmerising view of the Taj Mahal at sunset.

Overnight at the hotel.

15, March 2019
Agra – Virindavan

After breakfast full day photo opportunity of holi (Lathmar Holi) of Barsana. The first in this is a rather peculiar style of Holi celebrations where women chase men and beat them up with Lathis (sticks), and it’s called Lathmar Holi. There are two towns which celebrate this festival with zest and these are Barsana and Nandgaon.

This is how the story behind the festival goes. Lord Krishna visited Barsana to meet Radha for Holi and teased her and her friends a lot. The ladies got a little offended and decided to teach Krishna a lesson and chased him away by beating him with sticks. So now men from Krishna’s village Nandgaon visit Barsana on this day and get beaten up and chased by the women here.

Overnight at the hotel.

16, March 2019
Virindavan – Lathmar Holi in Nandgoan

Today we will take you to Lathmar Holi in Nandgoan. Nandgaon is Lord Krishna’s birthplace and Barsana is Radha’s (his beloved). Radha-Krishna love-story is one of the most famous ones in the Hindu mythology. Even today, a man/woman from Nandgaon would not get married to a woman/man from Barsana. According to the legend, menfolk from Nandgaon visit Barsana to celebrate ‘Holi’ with women from Barsana. When these people come visiting, they are welcomed by these women with sticks and are beaten up. The bunch from Nandgaon comes well prepared for it, with a padded shield to counter the attacks. These sticks are called ‘lathths’, hence this holi- celebration is famously known as ‘Laththmaar’ holi.

17, March 2019
Virindavan – Delhi (Drive)

After breakfast drive to Delhi. Upon arrival check in at the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight at hotel.

18, March 2019
Delhi Departure

On time departure transfer to airport to board your flight for onward journey.